Overview

A variety of strands of arthritis can affect the foot ankle joints and feet including Osteoarthritis and Gout. These conditions can cause permanent damage to the bones, cartilage, or joints depending on the diagnosis. This can range anywhere from the breakdown of tissue, to disease or mineral infection, often resulting in the rubbing of bone on bone.

symptoms

Symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the diagnosis of each specific strand. Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage resulting in the rubbing of bones. This is associated with ankle pain, stiffness and swelling in the joint, and tenderness leading down to the big toes. In contrast, gout begins with severe pain in the big toe and is followed by flu or cold symptoms resulting from the uric acid build up in the bloodstream.

Causes

The four primary causes of Osteoarthritis are trauma to the joint, old age, excessive weight, and genetics. Gout is the result of urate crystal build up in the joints, resulting in pain. The digestion of meats, fish, poultry, and beer can produce urate acid, which is often broken down by the kidneys. However, overproduction can result in gout. 

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Possible treatments

Arthritis can be treated with physiotherapy and prescription topical creams. Custom orthotics as well as injections may also be prescribed to relieve symptoms. An alternative to injections may include Theralaser therapy.